Red cabbage coleslaw is a delicious side dish to make in the colder months, when this ingredient is in season. For the coleslaw, make sure you slice the red cabbage as finely as possible. If you have a mandoline in your kitchen this will create the best outcome for the dish, or you can use a sharp knife.
Some chefs will also salt the red cabbage before making the coleslaw. This adds an extra 10 minutes to the recipe time, but helps the cabbage to soften and absorb the flavours of the coleslaw dressing better. If this red cabbage dish is a hit in your home, there are lots of other recipes to explore using this colourful ingredient, including red cabbage tacos for a playful dinner idea.
How to balance flavours and textures in coleslaw
In this red cabbage coleslaw recipe, you’ll need to consider the balance of sweetness and acidity in the overall dish. Sugar helps to offset the bitterness of the red cabbage, whereas the inclusion of apple cider vinegar brightens and lifts the overall flavours and pairs well with the creaminess of the mayonnaise. We’ve also suggested making this red cabbage coleslaw with carrot, adding natural vibrancy and sweetness.
Red cabbage has a firm and crunchy texture that it holds despite the addition of the sauce. To maintain this desirable crispy feel, take care not to overcoat the cabbage. Too much dressing can turn this side dish soggy over time. You can also make coleslaw with different varieties of cabbage. Take a look at our guide to some of the most popular varieties of cabbage to find the one that’s best for your palate.
Choosing the right dressing
When selecting the dressing for your coleslaw, there are a few options to consider. Creamy dressings such as mayonnaise, used in the recipe above, benefit from being paired with vinegar to balance their tangy and rich flavour. Mayonnaise works well for coleslaw dishes as it coats the cabbage well, and is generally used in most traditional coleslaw recipes.
If you’re making a vegan version of coleslaw, you can opt to use a vinaigrette dressing. This lacks the creamy texture provided by the mayonnaise, but brings a brightness to the cabbage and a lighter feel to the dish.
Adding crunch and freshness
For further crunch and texture in the coleslaw, some chefs will add ingredients such as chopped walnuts. Alongside the apple cider vinegar, a splash of lemon juice can help to brighten the flavours and create a fresher style of coleslaw.
Serving ideas for red cabbage coleslaw
Red cabbage coleslaw is one of the best side dishes to serve with ribs. Its crunchy texture and vibrant flavours pair perfectly with the chewy and umami-rich meat. For a midweek meal idea, try plating red cabbage coleslaw alongside a hearty plate of cheesy pasta. Or enjoy the coleslaw in a grilled vegetable wrap for a mouthwatering lunchtime meal.
Storage and make-ahead
Any leftover coleslaw can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to one day. After this time, you may find the cabbage becomes soggy sitting in the dressing. For longer storage, keep the dressing separate and combine the elements when you’re ready to serve.
If you can make it a couple of hours ahead of eating, you’ll find the flavours enhance and deepen. This is the sweet spot to ensure your coleslaw stays crisp but produces the tastiest flavours.
